Compact 3-Axis Gimbal Layout for Vertical Image Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gimbal configurations are often bulky, heavy, and limit the rotation of payloads, particularly hindering the capture of vertical-oriented images and are not optimally suited for mobile applications such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
Innovation Solution
A compact gimbal system that allows for rotation of a payload about a roll axis by 90 degrees or more, featuring a carrier with components enabling rotation around pitch, yaw, and roll axes, and a controller with sensors to adjust the payload's orientation for horizontal, vertical, or intermediate image capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional gimbal configuration is used to support and stabilize a payload, then the payload can be stabilized, but the gimbal requires large volume and weight which is not optimal for mobile use
Solution Approach 1:
The gimbal system is divided into three separate carrier components, each responsible for rotation about a specific axis (pitch, yaw, and roll). This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for minimal weight while maintaining the overall stabilization function.
Solution Approach 2:
The three carrier components are arranged in a nested configuration where the second carrier component is supported by the first, and the third is supported by the second. This nesting allows the components to share structural support, reducing redundant materials and overall gimbal weight.
2Reliability
If a traditional gimbal configuration is used, then the payload can be stabilized, but the gimbal mechanism limits rotation of the payload with respect to certain axes
Solution Approach 1:
The third carrier component is designed to permit rotation of the payload about the roll axis by 90 degrees or more, enabling dynamic adjustment between horizontal and vertical image orientations. This dynamic rotation capability allows the system to adapt to different capture requirements while maintaining stabilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The gimbal system changes the rotation parameter about the roll axis to enable different image orientations. By allowing rotation of 90 degrees or more about the roll axis, the system can switch between capturing horizontal images, vertical images, and intermediate orientations, thereby increasing adaptability.
3Reliability
If a traditional gimbal configuration is used, then the payload can be stabilized, but the gimbal mechanism limits or hinders acquisition of vertical oriented images
Solution Approach 1:
The third carrier component enables dynamic rotation about the roll axis by 90 degrees or more, allowing the imaging device to switch between horizontal and vertical orientations while maintaining stabilization. This dynamic capability directly enables acquisition of vertical oriented images.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the roll angle parameter to enable vertical image capture. By permitting rotation of the payload about the roll axis by 90 degrees or more, the gimbal can adjust the orientation parameter to capture vertical images while maintaining payload stabilization.
4Weight of moving object
If a compact gimbal configuration is used to reduce volume and weight, then mobile use is optimized, but the gimbal mechanism may limit rotation of the payload
Solution Approach 1:
The nested arrangement of the three carrier components allows them to share structural support, reducing the overall volume and weight of the gimbal while still accommodating the full range of motion required for 90 degrees or more of rotation about the roll axis.
Solution Approach 2:
By segmenting the gimbal into three separate carrier components, each can be optimized for minimal weight and compact size, yet collectively they provide the full rotational capability needed for horizontal, vertical, and intermediate image capture.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of stabilizing a payload fitted in a carrier includes providing a first carrier component of the carrier, supporting a second carrier component of the carrier using the first carrier component, and supporting a third carrier component of the carrier using the second carrier component. The first carrier component is configured to permit rotation of the payload about a pitch axis. The second carrier component is configured to permit rotation of the payload about a yaw axis. The third carrier component is configured to permit rotation of the payload about a roll axis and connects to the payload.